Markina-Xemein: The Camino de Santiago, heritage and hotels

Markina-Xemein lies on the coastal Camino de Santiago, which follows the Basque coast to Santiago de Compostela. The townscape includes protected buildings and religious traditions; trails in the surrounding area connect the pilgrimage route with walks and experiences in nature. If you are looking for a hotel in Markina-Xemein, these themes can help you plan your stay.

Heritage and notable buildings

The old town was classified as a Cultural Heritage Site in the “Monumental Ensemble” category in 1996 and placed under special protection. The Church of Xemein is also designated a National Monument of Euskadi. Its rectangular floor plan comprises three naves, separated by six limestone columns; above them is a star-shaped ribbed vault. The Xemein cemetery adds to this historic setting: dating from the mid-19th century, it is neoclassical in style and is also designated a National Monument of Euskadi.

A self-guided heritage tour includes 20 stops featuring monuments and historic and religious buildings. The buildings described include Torre Bidarte, a Baroque palace concealing a medieval tower, and the medieval Torre Barroeta. The latter was altered in the 16th and 18th centuries and retains loopholes, twin windows and two pointed-arch entrances. Torre Ugarte also has a pointed-arch entrance and loopholes, as well as corbels and pointed-arch openings.

Smaller historic details also tell the story of the town. The hermitage of Santa Cruz has been documented since the 16th century and is considered an old wayside shrine. The general assemblies of the Markina Merindad met on the hill above the Murga family estate; the site is near the present-day Iparraguirre water tank and the Sagastiguren tree. The gardens of Uhagón Palace contain a monument to Juan Antonio Moguel created by Xiri Andonegi. The chapel of San Miguel de Arretxinaga lies on the Camino de Santiago at the confluence of the Artibai and Urko rivers. Inside it is a hydrothermal geological formation dating back approximately 40 million years.

Trails, landscapes and getting around

The Urko bidea is a walking route about five kilometres long. It follows the Urko River from Barinaga to Markina-Xemein and passes through Etxebarria; it is described as a route for recreation, walks and time in nature. Pedestrians have priority on the Urko trail; bicycles and all motor vehicles are prohibited. Check trail conditions before setting out. The PR-BI 27 leads to Urregarai and Santa Eufemia. Pilgrims walk this route every year on the feast day of Saint Euphemia, 16 September.

Those interested in the views can enjoy vistas of Markina-Xemein and the surrounding area from the summit of Akarregi. Torre Bidarte Park is a publicly used woodland park and forms the forest of Murga Palace. Public transport connects Munitibar with Etxebarria via Bolibar and Markina-Xemein. Check the timetable before travelling. The Uhagon Cultural Centre has an exhibition space, a conference room and a cafeteria; if you plan a visit, check the latest information about the facilities beforehand.

Festivals, markets and local produce

The Fiestas del Carmen are considered the most important local festival. They take place in July around 16 July, Día del Carmen, and usually last four to five days. The traditional table dance Mahai Ganeko is performed by the local group Zerutxu Dantza Taldea at midnight on 29 September. The large October fair takes place on the second Saturday in October. Its programme includes a livestock exhibition, the Euskadi championship for the Blonde d'Aquitaine breed, an exhibition of animals from Euskal Herria, and the exhibition and sale of agricultural produce and equipment. You can check the dates and programme before travelling.

Local markets and popular festivals showcase and sell products from local farms, including cheese, bread, pastries, vegetables, chistorra, meat, txakoli and cider. Individual vendors and festival dates may vary. These culinary and cultural events complement the buildings and trails, providing further points of interest to help you plan your stay in Markina-Xemein.

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